Main Sections Research Articles

The development of a smart teacher book for preventing stereotypical behavior and suspicion in early childhood education

This research develops and assesses the effectiveness of the Smart Teacher Book in preventing stereotypical behavior and suspicion in early childhood education. Employing a mixed-method approach, it combines qualitative descriptive analysis by experts, practitioners, and book users with a quantitative assessment through quasi-experimentation to evaluate the book's effectiveness while being integrated into children's learning activities. Twenty early childhood education teachers participated and were evenly divided into experimental and control groups. The instruments consist of three scales: appropriate, less appropriate, and not appropriate. The book comprises two main sections. The first section is tailored for teachers, covering stereotypical behavior and suspicion and their causes, dangers, and prevention strategies. The second section is designed for children, presenting illustrated material addressing various stereotypes and suspicions related to social categories such as race, gender, religion, and politics. Meanwhile, the test results indicate that the Smart Teacher Book is effective for early childhood education teachers in mitigating stereotypical behavior and suspicion, as evidenced by the readability and effectiveness of the test results. Therefore, the book holds promise as a tool for fostering inclusivity and reducing prejudice in early childhood education settings.

Virtual exhibitions for scientific knowledge propagation

Scientific knowledge propagation is among the key functions of the Common Scientific Knowledge Digital Space (CSKDS), and the virtual exhibitions (VE) as an efficient instrument enable to accumulate heterogeneous scientific information on phenomena, events or scholars. The authors discuss the general issues and principles of VE organization, content selection, VE structure and main sections. Three VE types are specified, namely autonomous, remote and combined VE. Selection and content structuration methods are proposed for each of the types. The authors introduce extensibility and flexibility as VE characteristics. They also describe in detail the VE experience of the RAS Interdepartmental Supercomputer Center as a model CSKDS element. They describe the VE “Mrs. Penicillin” dedicated to Zinaida Vissarionovna Ermolyeva, a microbiologist who created the preparation of penicillin in the USSR in the late 1930s. The exhibition offers information about Ermolyeva, her scientific and pedagogical work.The study is accomplished at Russian Academy of Sciences Interdepartmental Supercomputer Center, branch of RAS Research Institute of System Analysis within the framework of the Government Order No. FNEF-2024-0014.

Evaluation of the efficacy of a simulation model used in oral and maxillofacial surgery education

BackgroundThe traditional teaching methods of dental education are gradually being replaced with futuristic education methods based on the usage of educational tools such as mannequin-based simulation models and virtual reality. However, the effectiveness of mannequin-based simulation models as a learning method in the field of oral surgery remains unclear. This study aims to investigate the efficacy of training on a tooth extraction model (TEM) in view of undergraduate dental students’ experience and perception of their education.MethodsA quasi-experimental trial was implemented with two consecutive year classes, totaling 136 students at the Dentistry Faculty of Altinbas University, Turkiye. Two cohorts were created from dental students in the classes of 2023 and 2022 graduates. Cohort 1 (n = 71) received 14 h of theoretical education followed by 10 h of preclinical education on TEM. Cohort 2 (n = 65) received only 14 h of theoretical education. An anonymous questionnaire was prepared with four main sections including the preferences of learning style, participants’ perceptions of the preclinical training methods, the students’ competency and free text comments. Students’ opinions were quantified with both 7-point Likert scales and thematic analysis. Anxiety levels were measured with the interval scale of anxiety response (ISAR). Descriptive statistics, inferential statistical and thematic analyses were conducted according to survey responses. Student characteristics were summarized and compared for two cohorts using a t-test. For all statistical analyses, the significance level was set atP ≤ 0.05.ResultCohort 1 was more comfortable with sequential motions performed with the forceps (P = 0.033) and felt more ready for their first clinical tooth extraction experience (P = 0.028). Cohort 2 showed a significantly higher preference for textbooks among supplementary materials (P = 0.04); however, they tended to exhibit lower self-confidence and higher anxiety levels, though without any statistical significance (P > 0.05).ConclusionIt is clear that the students who have yet to start seeing patients benefit from increased practice with training models, which adequately reflect and represent real-life situations encountered in everyday practice.

Guarantee of Hidden Defects in the Sale in the Jordanian Civil Law

This research aims to study the topic (guarantee of the hidden defect in the sale in Jordanian civil law), which is an important and worthy research topic that has not received sufficient attention in the civil law literature. There is no doubt that the sale contract is one of the most common and used contracts in daily life in all countries of the world. The sale contract is also considered the only contract that a person concludes daily and even a number of times per day. This contract is the basis for the exchange of funds and the link between production on the one hand and consumption on the other. Hence, the Jordanian legislator has dealt with the provisions of guaranteeing hidden defects in Articles (512-521) of the Jordanian Civil Code to achieve stability in financial transactions and cultivate confidence and trade exchange. The study of this research was divided into two main sections: the first section deals with the nature of the hidden defect and the conditions for guaranteeing it, and the second section deals with the provisions of the lawsuit guaranteeing the hidden defect. I have discussed this topic in detail. This study included a set of results and recommendations.

An Analysis of Deixis in “Beauty and The Beast” Movie Script

Deixis has an important role to build the communication process. This research aimed to find out the distribution of scenes, types of deixis are often found and distribution of deixis in all sections of Beauty and The Beast movie script by using Cruse theory (2000). This research used a descriptive qualitative method. The object of this study is Beauty and The Beast movie script by Stephen Chbosky and Evan Spiliotopoulos. Documentation and checklist were used in data collection. The results showed that the distribution of scenes in the Beauty and The Beast movie script are found in the orientation section, complication section, rising action section, turning point section and resolution section. Coda is not found in this movie. Then, person deixis, social deixis and spatial deixis are the most dominant deixis in Beauty and The Beast movie script. Finally, there were five types of deixis in the orientation section, complication section, rising action section, turning point section but there are only two types of deixis that are found in the resolution section in the Beauty and the Beast movie script. It is suggested that English teachers and students should be familiar with the types of deixis in the main section of the movie before using it for the teaching and learning process.

Assessing corporate social responsibility in South Africa’s built environment industry

PurposeStudies showed that stakeholders want the construction sector’s organisations to be more accountable and transparent regarding social and environmental issues through corporate social responsibility (CSR). There is a paucity of literature regarding CSR implementation in the construction sector, especially in developing countries like South Africa. Hence, the study evaluated CSR’s merits and hindrances and suggested solutions to enhance its implementation in the South African construction sector of Mpumalanga Province.Design/methodology/approachThe researchers employed a questionnaire survey method to collect data from 68 useable respondents in the South African construction sector of Mpumalanga Province. The main section of the questionnaire was divided into three parts, each addressing an objective mean item score ranking technique.FindingsFindings show management lacks willingness, absence of recognition for implementing CSR at tender adjudication, professionals regard CSR as a “soft issue,” inadequate ability to carry out CSR initiatives and lax CSR knowledge emerged as the key issues hindering construction stakeholders, especially construction companies, from participating in CSR in South Africa. The research suggests initiatives to enhance CSR in the construction industry.Originality/valueThe study shows that the findings can be used to improve the implementation of CSR engagement and possibly enhance a policy to stimulate friendly CSR in the South African construction sector.

Technological and corporate innovation in Spanish specialised metallurgy: the case of Rivière (1860–1924)

Metallurgy is, along with textiles, the leading industry of the first industrial revolution in Spain, a feature highlighted in the literature from very early on. One of its sub-sectors, that of metal transformation, has received very special attention from researchers. However, certain gaps still persist in some branches, particularly those relating to various factors of the production system at the factory level, such as capital (equipment and energy), labour, and corporate structure. Herein lies the main motivation for this research, which addresses the reasons behind the success of medium-sized companies in specialised metallurgy in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, using a case study methodology, primary sources, a long-term perspective and a comparative procedure. The text comprises three main sections, covering the formation of the Rivière company, the production system of this company, and its organisational innovations.

Saudi women's perspectives on postpartum depression.

Postpartum depression (PPD) is a serious disorder that affects women worldwide, making it a crucial public health concern and one of the most prevalent childbirth complications. Assessing the perspectives of Saudi women towards PPD is essential for addressing the issue and developing effective solutions. This study aimed to assess the knowledge and attitude of Saudi women about PPD in King Abdulaziz Medical City, Western Region. This study employed a descriptive cross-sectional research design and included 226 women recruited through convenience sampling at the Obstetrics and Gynaecology Outpatient Department in King Abdul-Aziz Medical City, Jeddah. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire with 3 main sections: socio-demographic characteristics, knowledge regarding risk factors and symptoms of PPD, and attitude about PPD. The mean score (SD) of the knowledge scale was 31.8 (6.2) with 53.5% of participants having a good level of knowledge about PPD. The mean score (SD) of the attitude scale was 27.1 (2.8) with 47.3% of participants having a positive attitude towards PPD. Significant differences were identified in the knowledge scale, where women who were postgraduates, working in the health sector and unpregnant scored higher in the knowledge scale compared to others (P = .008, P = .02, & P = .008, respectively). The findings of this study indicate that women's knowledge about PPD was generally good; however, many of them held negative attitudes towards PPD. These findings underscore the importance of proper education to improve mental health literacy and address prejudices and negative stereotypes related to PPD among Saudi women.

Implementing a cancer survivorship seminar course to non-healthcare professional undergraduate students

BackgroundAt University of California, Irvine (UCI), a seminar course focused on cancer survivorship was developed and offered to non-healthcare professional undergraduate students. Utilizing the knowledge, attitude, and perception (KAP) framework, this study was designed to examine the impact on students who have taken this course, and to clarify the value of this course for undergraduate students.MethodsThis was a cross-sectional survey. Undergraduate students enrolled in the Life After Cancer Freshmen Seminar course (Uni Stu 3) at UCI between 2021 and 2023 were invited to participate. The survey consisted of 4 main sections: (1) demographics, (2) knowledge of cancer survivorship, (3) attitude towards cancer survivorship, and (4) perception and awareness of cancer survivorship. The survey was administered prior to the implementation of the course, and the same survey was administered at the end of the course.ResultsA total of 33 students completed the pre-implementation survey and 30 students completed the post-implementation survey. Comparing pre- and post-course implementation, there was an increase of perception and awareness of (i) resources and guidelines for cancer survivors (pre, 9.1% vs. post, 36.7%), (ii) mental health complications among cancer survivors (pre, 36.4% vs. post, 56.7%), (iii) benefits of cancer survivorship care (pre, 15.2% vs. post, 40%), latest research in cancer survivorship (pre, 0% vs. post, 23.3%), and (iv) tailoring survivors’ needs according to their age groups (pre, 24.2% vs. post, 66.7%). Knowledge and attitude towards caring of cancer survivors were similar comparing pre- and post-course implementation.ConclusionIn an undergraduate seminar course focused on cancer survivorship, we observed an improvement of non-healthcare students’ perception and awareness of cancer survivorship-related issues, advocating the value on introducing highly prevalent cancer survivorship topics early to both undergraduate STEM and non-STEM students.

Development and Performance Analysis of an Automatic Core Cutter for Elephant Apple (Dillenia indica L.) Processing.

Elephant apple, a fruit with numerous bioactive compounds, is rich in therapeutic qualities. However, its use in processed products is limited due to insufficient postharvest processing methods. To address this issue, an automatic core cutter (ACC) was developed to handle the hard nature of the fruit while cutting. The physical characteristics of the elephant apple were considered for designing and development of the cutter. The cutter is divided into four main sections, including a frame, collecting tray, movable coring unit, and cutting base with five fruit holders. The parts that directly contact the fruit are made of food-grade stainless steel. The efficiency of the cutter was analyzed based on cutting/coring capacity, machine efficiency, loss percentage, and other factors, and was compared to traditional cutting methods (TCM) and a foot-operated core cutter (FOCC). The ACC had an average cutting/coring capacity of 270-300 kg/h, which was significantly higher than TCM's capacity of 12-15 kg/h and comparable to FOCC's capacity of 115-130 kg/h. The ACC offered a higher sepal yield of 85.68 ± 1.80% compared to TCM's yield of 65.76 ± 1.35%, which was equivalent to the yield obtained by FOCC. Therefore, the ACC outperforms TCM in terms of quality, quantity, and stress associated and is superior to FOCC in terms of higher efficiency of machine and labor.

Normal stress distribution in built-up cold-formed column in relation to interconnecting bolt spacing

In order to increase a stiffness of cold-formed steel (CFS) elements it is practised to built-up the cross-section. In the analysed case, a main element is strengthened by adding extra chord in contact partially along the column. This additional chord acts as a longitudinal stiffener connected with the main section by series of bolts. Authors check whether rules applied over the years, for hot-rolled elements, can be indiscriminately used in the analysed CFS element. The aim of this study is to experimentally and computationally recognize the normal stress distribution in axially compressed CFS built-up column chords and to evaluate the element load-bearing capacity.

Do’s and don’ts of microplastic research: a comprehensive guide

Microplastics are environmental contaminants consisting of small plastics ≤ 5 mm. Concerns over the adverse effects of microplastics have led to a rapid growth in the available literature despite the lack of harmonized methods and materials. Therefore, the field is becoming increasingly daunting to new researchers. A state-of-the-art guide was assembled following a comprehensive literature review of microplastics research with the intent of addressing contemporary challenges, prioritized based on a survey, and introducing best practices. The lack of standardized methods and reference materials, the lack of access to analytical equipment, and the difficulty in working with lower environmental concentrations in laboratory tests (e.g., toxicity assays) remain a great challenge. The present work addresses these issues across three main sections: definitions, sampling, and evaluation of adverse effects. Harmonized methods and greater collaboration were identified as opportunities in this rapidly evolving field. A review of available interlaboratory comparison tests was also conducted to support additional recommendations.

Al-Tabarsi’s Preferences in His Book Majma al-Bayan (Part One)

The summary of this research, titled "Al-Tabrisi's Preferences in his Book Majma al-Bayan (Part one)" deals with the researcher dividing the research into an introduction, two main sections, a conclusion and a list of references. Section one covers Al-Tabrisi's life and methodology in his book 'Majma al-Bayan' consisting of three sub sections. As for the second section, it includes Al-Tabrisi's methodology in preference consisting of four sub sections. The researcher traced Al-Tabrisi's preferences in his interpretation, explained his methodology in preference, and the aspects of preference according to him. It is worth mentioning that no researcher has previously followed Al-Tabrisi's preferences independently, which are numerous and diverse, making it a broad and highly beneficial scientific topic. Allah has facilitated my work in this subject and I have addressed his preferences in the first part.

Assessing the biennial conference on science and technology (BICOST IX) 2023 technical output on renewable energy, energy storage, and green hydrogen in line with UN SDG commitments

Abstract The development, production and utilization of renewable energy, energy storage and green hydrogen and the associated technologies in Sri Lanka have great potential to contribute to the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The island aims to achieve 70% electricity generation from renewable energy sources by 2030 (within the target of 40% utilization of renewable energy sources for the entire energy generation of the country by 2030). The power sector has to invest US$11 billion from 2023 to 2030 to contribute to reaching this target. This commentary aims to provide a critical perspective on the recommendations of the report from the National Science and Technology Commission’s 9th biennial conference in 2023 on science and technology, the sub-thematic technical report on clean energy, energy storage and green hydrogen in line with the SDGs in the Sri Lankan context. The technical report provides insightful recommendations for Sri Lanka’s energy sector under three main sections: renewable energy, energy storage and green hydrogen. Also, it explores the potential of various renewable energy sources, energy storage systems and green hydrogen as sustainable solutions to address the country’s energy challenges while emphasizing the spillover effects of them, which could contribute to the enterprise’s job creation and uplift the economy.

Review on structural optimization techniques for additively manufactured implantable medical devices

Recent developments in additive manufacturing (AM) have led to significant opportunities in the design and fabrication of implantable medical devices due to the advantages that AM offers compared to conventional manufacturing, such as high customizability, the ability to fabricate highly complex shapes, good dimensional accuracy, a clean build environment, and reduced material usage. The study of structural design optimization (SDO) involves techniques such as Topology Optimization (TO), Shape Optimization (SHO), and Size Optimization (SO) that determine specific parameters to achieve the best measurable performance in a defined design space under a given set of loads and constraints. Integration of SDO techniques with AM leads to utmost benefits in designing and fabricating optimized implantable medical devices with enhanced functional performance. Research and development of various lattice structures represents a powerful method for unleashing the full potential of additive manufacturing (AM) technologies in creating medical implants with improved surface roughness, biocompatibility, and mechanical properties. Furthermore, the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) in structural optimization has expanded opportunities to improve device performance, adaptability, and durability. The review is meticulously divided into two main sections, reflecting the predictability of the implant’s internal structure: (a) unpredictable interior topology, which explores topology-based optimization techniques, and (b) predictable inner topology, concentrating on lattice structures. The analysis of the reviewed literature highlights a common focus on addressing issues such as stress shielding, osseointegration enhancement, customization to individual needs, programmable functionalities, and weight reduction in implant designs. It emphasizes significant advances in reducing stress shielding effects, promoting osseointegration, and facilitating personalized implant creation. The review provides a detailed classification of optimization methods, with each approach scrutinized for its unique contribution to overcoming specific challenges in medical implant design, thus leading to more advanced, effective, and patient-oriented implantable devices.

The rootedness of governance of muslims from the Sunna and the science of Al Kalam, manuscript: 'Statement and Validation of the Explanation of Addareer’s book

As the system of religious command was specifically intended for the one with legislative authority—peace be upon him— without a doubt, no religious system is established except under the leadership of an imam who is obeyed. Consequently, the topic of 'Governance's Rooting' stands as one of the most crucial and essential subjects. Indeed, the value of a science lies in the knowledge it provides. The purpose and objective of this research is to connect the system of allegiance that the rule of the believers is based on, from the perspective of the science of Al Kalam. This is done by adhering to what Abu Ali al-Sukun mentioned, the skilled practitioner of science of Al Kalam, the defender of the ashraeet doctrine against its opponents, as stated in his manuscript: ‘Explanation and Liberation on the Explanation of the Dareer’s book’. I have divided this research into three main sections : A brief translation of the works of Abu Ali Assukuney ; The perspective of Assukuniy on the science of Al Kalam ; Connecting the rule of the believers in the Ash'arite school in general and, more specifically, in the context of al-Sukuney

Design and fabrication of wearable electronic textiles using twisted fiber-based threads.

Mono-dimensional fiber-based electronics can effectively address the growing demand for improved wearable electronic devices because of their exceptional flexibility and stretchability. For practical applications, functional fiber electronic devices need to be integrated into more powerful and versatile systems to execute complex tasks that cannot be completed by single-fiber devices. Existing techniques, such as printing and sintering, reduce the flexibility and cause low connection strength of fiber-based electronic devices because of the high curvature of the fiber. Here, we outline a twisting fabrication process for fiber electrodes, which can be woven into functional threads and integrated within textiles. The design of the twisted thread structure for fiber devices ensures stable interfacing and good flexibility, while the textile structure features easily accessible, interlaced points for efficient circuit connections. Electronic textiles can be customized to act as displays, health monitors and power sources. We detail three main fabrication sections, including the fabrication of the fiber electrodes, their twisting into electronic threads and their assembly into functional textile-based devices. The procedures require ~10 d and are easily reproducible by researchers with expertise in fabricating energy and electronic devices.

Legal Knowledge among Late Roman Elites: The Evidence of Jerome

Abstract: Hans-Dieter Spengler sodali et iuris consulto Jerome's oeuvre is huge; it comprises translations and commentaries of many books of the Christian Bible, a universal history, a history of Christian literature, biographies of monks, many treatises, and more than 130 letters addressed to people from the educated upper classes of the late Roman West. This article investigates what role Roman law played in Jerome's writings, what he knew about it, and how he evaluated it. It also looks at his views on late Roman jurisdiction and collects the evidence he provides for petitions to the emperor and for imperial rescripts. The main section analyzes Jerome's ideas about imperial legislation, his knowledge of individual laws, and the way he presented them. On this basis, it is argued that Jerome's writings bear impressive witness to the importance of Roman law for both the social practice and the mindset of the provincial and local elites in the late Roman empire.

A Survey of the Clinical Practice of Korean Medicine for Smoking Cessation in Public Health Centers: A Web-Based Survey of Public Health Doctors of Korean Medicine

Background: In South Korea, public health centers provide smoking cessation (SC) treatments including behavioral therapy and nicotine replacement treatment. Also, public health doctors of Korean medicine (PHDKMs) are providing Korean Medicine (KM) treatments. Several studies have reported the clinical usefulness of KM treatment, but in this study, the opinion of PHDKMs was explored to examine the current KM treatments for SC.Methods: A web-based survey (Moaform) of the treatment for SC by PHDKMs consisted of 5 main sections including clinical practice status, SC participants, KM treatments for SC, progress and prognosis, and perception of KM. The survey was emailed twice to 621 PHDKMs on April 6 to 20, 2022. The frequencies and percentages of each question were calculated.Results: There were 28 PHDKMs who participated in the survey. Among them, over 90% of PHDKMs had treated ≤ 10 SC participants, and about 10% of PHDKMs had treated 11-20 participants. The abstinence rate was 56.8% with an average 63.2% level of satisfaction in the treatment. Typically used, and recognized as important KM treatments, were auricular acupuncture, acupuncture, education, and herbal medicine. While auricular acupuncture and education were perceived as convenient KM treatment, PHDKMs thought that SC could not be achieved with KM treatment alone and needed be combined with other treatments.Conclusion: This survey showed the effectiveness of KM treatments with withdrawal symptoms, and treatment satisfaction of SC participants. Respondents also thought that KM treatment combined with other treatments is more effective than KM monotherapy. Based on this small study, further research would be needed.

항공 교통약자의 권리보호에 관한 고찰

The purpose of this paper is to examine the institutional arrangements in place to facilitate air travel for people with disabilities and other transportation disadvantaged populations as air transportation demand begins to recover from the COVID-19 pandemic.
 The paper is organized into three main sections. The first section is a theoretical review of the public nature of air transportation and the mobility rights of people with disabilities. In particular, it discusses how private commercial airlines, which are not operated by the state, are public, and furthermore, why the right to mobility of persons with disabilities should be guaranteed in air transportation.
 In the second paragraph, we reviewed the comparative legal framework for ensuring the right to mobility of persons with disabilities in air transportation. The regulations of ICAO and IATA were examined as international standards, and legislative examples of developed aviation countries such as the United States and the European Union were analyzed. Through this, we explored various ways to ensure the right to mobility of the air traffic disadvantaged by comparing international standards and cases from advanced countries.
 The third paragraph examines the provisions related to the air traffic disadvantaged in Korea's Aviation Business Act and its implementing regulations, and suggests future revisions.
 Air transportation plays an important role as a means of transportation for the entire society. However, the transportation disadvantaged, especially people with disabilities, face many difficulties in using air transportation services. Since it is difficult to solve these problems through legal amendments alone, it is necessary to recognize the public nature of air transportation and make efforts to ensure the rights and interests of the transportation disadvantaged based on this.
 From a theoretical perspective, this paper explored the reasons why air transportation is public and why it is necessary to prevent the exclusion of the disadvantaged. From a practical perspective, it investigated what legal measures developed countries are taking to protect the disadvantaged in the field of air transportation and tried to suggest ways for Korea to realize the rights and interests of the disadvantaged more effectively. This paper is expected to raise awareness of the theoretical and practical solutions for the protection of the disadvantaged in air transportation and contribute to the improvement of domestic policies and systems.